Casual Early Childhood Educator

Flexible work across 32 kindergartens — build your experience, broaden your connections, and make an impact every day

Are you looking for work that fits around your life, lets you explore different learning environments, and keeps you connected to a supportive team?

Meli is seeking Certificate III and Diploma‑qualified Educators to join our relief team, supporting both planned leave and short‑notice shifts across our network of 32 kindergartens and preschools.

Whether you're:

• Starting your career and eager to learn from diverse educators
• Mid‑career and looking for variety, stability, or growth
• Easing toward retirement and wanting flexible, meaningful work

…our relief team offers opportunities that meet you where you’re at.

Why Choose Relief Work at Meli?

Flexibility that suits your lifestyle

Pick up shifts that fit your week—whether that’s a couple of days, school‑hour blocks, or a regular rhythm that gives you consistency.

A network of 32 services

Experience a range of teaching styles, beautiful learning environments, and diverse communities. No two days are the same, while you stay supported by experienced leaders and welcoming teams.

Support when you need it

We understand stepping into new rooms can be a big job. You’ll be welcomed by teams who value collaborative practice, clear communication, and strong relationships.

Your Impact

As a relief educator, you bring steadiness, curiosity, and warmth into every environment you step into. You’ll help create engaging, play‑based learning experiences, support children to feel safe and confident, and work alongside educators and teachers who care deeply about their communities.

What You Bring, We Celebrate

We value educators at every stage of their career.

You’ll be paid in line with the VECTEA 2020 agreement:

Certificate III qualified educators: $28.12 - $30.23 p/h + casual loading

Diploma qualified educators: $31.66 p/h + casual loading

More Than a Workplace

At Meli, your work contributes to something bigger. As part of our integrated network of community services, your impact helps strengthen children, families, and the wider region. You’re not just filling a shift—you’re shaping the learning experiences that build strong, connected communities.

Space to Learn, Space to Lead

Relief educators at Meli have access to:

• Mentoring from experienced pedagogical leaders
• Opportunities to work across 32 services
• Professional development that grows with you
  

Whether you’re refining your practice or bringing decades of knowledge to the role, we support your growth.

What Sets Relief Work at Meli Apart

• Protected non‑contact time
• Guaranteed set‑up time at each shift
• Beautifully maintained, professionally cared‑for environments so you can focus on the children

What We're Looking For

We value individuals who bring dedication, empathy, and expertise to their roles. To succeed in this position, you will have:

• A relevant qualification in Early Childhood Education (Certificate III, Diploma or equivalent as approved by ACECQA and suitable pursuant to the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010 and the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011) 
• A valid Working with Children Check for Educators.
• Knowledge of the National Education and Care Services Act and Regulations 2011 and the Victorian Early Years Learning Framework and ECEC National Quality Framework and Standards
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to adapt to different teams and settings.
• A passion for supporting children’s development through creative, reflective, and responsive teaching practices.
  

Ready to Make a Difference?

We’re excited to hear from you! Please submit your application, including a résumé and addressing the key selection criteria in the application form. Applications close 11:59pm Sunday 23rd May 2026. 
We will be shortlisting and interviewing candidates throughout the advertising period and following the application close date.

For more information about the position please contact Tiffany Roussety, Team Leader, Family, Enrolments & Relief on 03 5273 0200

Take the Next Step

Join us and become part of a team that celebrates diversity, supports growth, and puts children at the heart of everything we do.

Apply now and start your journey with Meli.

Position description Apply now

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